Dry eye syndrome is a very common ailment, and many people are looking for the best treatment for dry eyes. Especially in more arid climates, this condition can be problematic, and patients complain of a scratchy or sandy feeling, or the sensation that a foreign matter is in the eye. Fortunately, your eye doctor can offer some solutions
Dry Eye Syndrome Symptoms
Someone who experiences dry eye syndrome, or DES, produces fewer tears of a poorer quality. This can cause:
- Stinging and burning
- Excessive tearing
- Pain
- Redness
DES does not typically cause loss of vision, but the symptoms can cause vision to blur.
Dry Eye Syndrome – Who it Affects
Women, especially those who are post-menopausal, are most likely to experience DES. Some medications, including antihistamines, nasal decongestants, anti-depressants, and tranquilizers, can exacerbate the condition. If you are taking any medications, be sure to let your doctor know, so that you can find the best treatment plan.
Dry Eye Syndrome Treatments
The first thing you might want to try is preservative-free artificial tears. These are available over the counter, so you can try them before you even visit the doctor. More severe cases require sterile ointments, or eye drops like Restasis, which have to be prescribed. Extreme cases may warrant surgery, in which the tear drain is either temporarily or permanently closed.
If you suffer from dry eyes, you may want to consider using a humidifier, and avoid sleeping under a fan. Of course, wearing sunglasses is always a good idea, not only to prevent dry eyes, but also to protect your eyes from ultraviolet radiation and foreign matter. If these measures do not improve your condition, consult your eye doctor, because most cases can be controlled with the assistance of a physician, who can prescribe the best treatment for dry eyes.
